Friday Favorites #60 Straw Handbags

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to you forever! Ps. 30:11-12

Hey, friends! Since I recently got new espadrille flatforms (which you've seen in several posts), it became apparent that now is perfect time to look for a straw handbag for summer. Make no mistake, it's not for lack of trying that I don't already have one. I just haven't found the one. While doing a deep dive search for myself, here are some convenient style categories and tips that may give you some guidance if you are also looking for a new straw handbag.

Tote: These are your basic carryalls with typically double handles that can be put over your wrist or shoulder. Their sizing is often more generous.

Crossbody: These come in a variety of shapes and can come in both a more traditional handbag and casual looks. You'll have to decide if a soft handbag or hard frame will work for you.

Satchel: These are for slipping over your wrist. This style also tends to be slightly more structured.

Colorful: These can be in any style type category, but their summery/vacation look is emphasized with color.

Whimsical: For those of us who really want to amp up the "fun factor" of summer. These bags can be unusually shaped, have fringe or embroidery on them.

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Some things to consider when looking for a straw bag:

When will you be using it most? Vacation, everyday, once in awhile.

What is your budget? Inexpensive, just for fun? Or, higher priced to last year after year?

Plain color to go with everything or colorful to add brightness?

Will stiff wicker be cumbersome?

Where are you going to set it? Will you need a leather or vinyl base or feet?

Do you need a secure closure?

Searching for pre-owned? If you're going to search Poshmark or eBay, some helpful categories that have a variety of choices (you can search wicker, straw or raffia) are: Fossil, Etienne Aigner, Tommy Bahama, vintage, Brighton, Your Favorite Designer. In addition to the above popular styles, there are also a few designs in backpacks and belt bags, too. You can also find crocheted raffia bags. While there are several cute clutch styles in straw, I left them off the list because they are less functional for day to day. It goes without saying, that Amazon has some inexpensive options, too.

Phew! Have I given you enough information to confuse you, or are you already set with your own straw handbag? I'm all kinds of torn on this decision as I like most of the styles! Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend (if you can tell it's a weekend)!